“That’s the hard part of the job,” Ainge said at Wednesday’s Shamrock Foundation charity golf tournament. “I know there’s a lot of feelings that go on when these types of things happen. I was a player who was traded twice, so I understand his sentiments. But you guys know how much I love Isaiah. He’s a great kid, and I wish him the best.”

Ainge said he hasn’t talked with Thomas since the night of the trade, and has no idea if they will talk anytime soon.

“I would try to, but I have no idea,” said Ainge. “That takes two people. He obviously said some things today. He has some strong feelings, strong emotions and I understand them. I think there’s just feelings there. There’s emotions. I think everybody understands it.”

Asked if Thomas’ desire to remain a Celtic was a compliment to the organization, Ainge said, “He was a great Celtic and I think everybody who watched him play and was in the locker room with him knows how great he was. He’ll be part of Celtic history forever.”